Investigating the relationship between DMFT and mothers’ knowledge and attitude about oral health and dmft of 6–12‑year‑old children with attention‑deficit/hyperactivity disorder

Abstract

Background: Children with attention‑deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are more prone to
tooth decay. In this regard, parents, especially their mothers, play a major role in the oral health
of their children.
Materials and Methods: The present study was a cross‑sectional descriptive study. The population
of this study was 64 children with ADHD referred to pediatric psychiatric clinics in Isfahan. Inclusion
criteria include willingness to participate in research. At least 6 months has passed since their child was
diagnosed with the disorder and their child is receiving treatment.Lack of obvious physical disorders,
psychotic disorders, mental retardation and chronic diseases in children with attention deficit/hyperactivity
disorder with the approval of a psychiatrist. Collaboration for dental examination by a dentist. Exclusion
criteria include obvious physical and mental disorders in mothers of children with attention‑deficit/
hyperactivity disorder. Simultaneous participation in a study similar to the present study due to the
possibility of errors in the results. Dissatisfaction with participating in the study and leaving the study
during the study. The data collection tool was interview‑questionnaire‑examination. Clinical interviews
were conducted using the Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia to confirm ADHD
and rule out other psychiatric illnesses. Information on decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT) of
permanent teeth and dmft of deciduous teeth is recorded separately. The score of each index (D, M, F),
(f, m, d) as well as the total index (DMFT), (dmft) is calculated for each person. Data were entered into
SPSS software version 26 by descriptive statistical methods, one‑way analysis of variance, t‑test, and
calculation of Spearman correlation coefficient. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: The oral health status of children with ADHD did not show a significant relationship with
the total score of attitude and knowledge of oral health behaviors of mothers (P > 0.05). The results
showed a significant positive relationship between the level of knowledge of the participants and
their education level (P < 0.05).
Conclusion: The results revealed that mothers’ knowledge and attitude about oral health and
dental health of children with ADHD were generally at an undesirable level.
Key Words: Attention‑deficit/hyperactivity disorder, attitude, child, dental caries